NMDI Database

Referred to as the SPC National Minimum Development Indicator (NMDI) database , it contains a selected number of statics and indicators experts in these various fields regarded as the absolute “must-have” information, to provide a succinct picture of the state of development concerning a particular development theme. It also includes all population-based MDG indicators, which can also be accessed through 8 distinct MDG Folders. In compiling this database, preference is given to national statistics over international estimates, except where countries recognise and themselves report international figures, such as WHO data on TB. Data contained in the NMDI database are regularly updated, and provide the statistical basis for the annual MDG Pacific Regional tracking Report, compiled by the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat (PIFS) they also feed into the various UN interagency working groups for Global MDG reporting.

National Minimum Development Indicator Database

In line with Pacific Plan Strategic Objective 12.4, and specifically Regional Leaders’ call for development of a core set of statistics across key sectors, we have compiled such a data set in consultation with sectoral specialists in Population and Development, Economics, Health, Agriculture and Forestry, Fisheries and Aquaculture, ICT, Energy, Gender, Cultural practice and Youth.

Data were collected primarily from national data sources (priority rule) or joint PIC-SPC reports, and only where we could not locate such information, did we make use of secondary sources.

In compiling this database, our biggest challenge has been reconciling multiple values and different data sources for the same indicator.

This complexity has been caused by:

discrepancies between many national MDG reports and other planning documents and official statistics published by Pacific island countries;

different values for the same indicator reported by national and regional/international agencies; and by

different values for the same indicator reported by different international agencies.